Instant Pot Badam Halwa (with almond meal)

5 from 38 votes

Instant Pot Badam Halwa (with almond meal)

Badam halwa or almond halwa is a rich and decadent dessert made with almonds, milk, sugar. Traditionally, it is made by soaking, peeling, and grinding the almonds which are then slow-cooked for at least an hour. In this recipe, I am sharing an easy fuss-free method of making this indulgent halwa using a shortcut method (Instant Pot) and a shortcut ingredient (almond meal).

Cook Time30

Total Time30

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Indian

Diet: Gluten Free, Hindu, Vegetarian

Servings:

Calories: 281kcal

Author: Shilpa Kerur

Equipment

Instant Pot

Ingredients

1¼ cup almond meal (125 grams)
¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons ghee
¾ cup plus 1 tablespoon milk
1½ cups water
½ cup sugar
½ teaspoon saffron
½ teaspoon cardamom powder

Instructions

Heat one tablespoon milk until it is warm and add saffron. Mix well and set it aside
Set the Instant Pot to saute mode (low) and add 2 tablespoons of ghee
Once the ghee melts, add the almond meal. Saute for 2 minutes
Add saffron milk, ¾ cup milk, and 1½ cup water. Mix well making sure there are no lumps
Secure the lid of the IP and set it to pressure cook mode (low) for 2 minutes
Do a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then do a quick release
Turn the Instant Pot on saute mode (normal)
Add sugar and ¼ cup ghee. Mix well and keep stirring
Continue stirring until the halwa thickens and the ghee begins to release from the sides. This will take approximately 9-10 minutes (see step-by-step images)
Add cardamom powder and mix well
Serve halwa warm

Video

Notes

I am using almond meal, which gives a grainy texture. You may use almond flour for smooth halwa, although almond meal works better and gives the same result as the traditional method.

I am making this halwa in an 8-quart Instant Pot. If you use a smaller IP, reduce the amount of water by ¼ cup.

Do not cut back on ghee, as this may change the taste and texture of the halwa.

Nutrition